Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca was filled with reward for his workforce after their 3-0 win over Legia Warsaw within the first leg of the UEFA Convention League quarter-final on Wednesday evening.
Talking after the match, Maresca described the efficiency as “skilled” and highlighted how properly the workforce tailored, particularly within the second half. He additionally took time to have a good time younger gamers Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong for his or her contributions.
“It was an excellent consequence ultimately,” Maresca stated. “We deliberate the match rigorously – ensuring our key gamers had been recent – and I feel general it was a stable, skilled efficiency. We had been a lot better within the second half, which was essential.”
Maresca confused the necessity for Chelsea to discover ways to play in opposition to various kinds of opponents, particularly groups like Legia who defend deep. “When groups sit again, there’s much less area. You must transfer the ball faster, take extra dangers, and check out photographs from exterior the field. That’s how we obtained our first aim – Tyrique reacted shortly to a rebound. These are the sorts of moments we should create extra typically.”
The Chelsea boss was significantly happy for teenager Tyrique George, who scored his first senior aim for the membership. “I’m very completely satisfied for him and in addition for the academy. He took duty and was courageous on the ball.”
Nevertheless, it was Josh Acheampong who really impressed Maresca. “Tonight, I fell in love with Josh,” he smiled. “For the reason that starting, I’ve seen nice potential in him. He can play wherever – full-back, midfield, central defence – and he performs properly in every place. That’s the signal of a prime participant. He’s at all times keen to study and that perspective is unbelievable.”
On the environment in Warsaw, Maresca stated he had anticipated a passionate crowd. “It’s a privilege to play in this sort of atmosphere. I informed the gamers earlier than the sport – get pleasure from it, as a result of not each recreation appears like this.”
Maresca additionally clarified that Cole Palmer’s substitution at half-time was pre-planned, not attributable to harm. “We had already determined he and Tosin would play simply 45 minutes. There’s no concern.”
As for Christopher Nkunku, who noticed his penalty saved, Maresca stated the striker is just going by means of a tough patch. “In the intervening time, it’s in all probability a insecurity. He’s missed some possibilities, however the essential factor is he’s nonetheless working arduous each day. That’s how he’ll get again to his finest.”
Chelsea now take a commanding lead into the second leg at Stamford Bridge on 17 April, with the ultimate set to be performed in Poland on 28 Could.